WINDSOR LOCKS--- A state representative from Enfield was arrested early Saturday on a charge of driving under the influence.
Rep. David Alexander, a Democrat, also was charged with reckless driving. Alexander, 33, of 277 Pearl St., was released without having to post bail and is scheduled to appear in Enfield Superior Court on March 9.
At around 1:30 a.m., a police officer saw Alexander stop for a red light at Elm Street and Ella Grasso Turnpike, then drive off while the light was still red, police said. The officer pulled Alexander over and determined he was driving under the influence, police said.
A Windsor Locks Police Captain tells Fox Connecticut Alexander did not take a breathalyzer or submit to a blood alcohol test. Alexander was released without having to post bail.
The 33 year old was recently re-elected to his second term in 2014 representing Enfield-- the 58th district.
Alexander released a statement apologizing for his actions:
"I take full responsibility for my actions and I am deeply sorry for what has transpired. I intend to get the necessary help to overcome my struggles with alcohol. I will do all I can to regain the trust of my constituents and redouble my efforts to fight for their priorities in the general assembly."
Alexander serves on several committees, including Vice Chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee and is a member of the finance revenue and bonding, public health, and veterans committees.
State Rep. Brendan Sharkey, speaker of the House, released a statement Saturday stating that he's "still gathering details about the incident, but it is certainly serious enough to warrant Rep Alexander's removal from his leadership responsibilities as vice-chair of the Government Administration & Elections Committee."
"I trust that David understands his responsibilities to his family, his constituents, and himself, and will be taking the appropriate steps to address this matter," Sharkey said.
“I wish him well, nothing but the best and I hope he gets the help that he needs,” ,” said Rep. David Kiner (D)—Enfield, East Windsor.
Rep. Kiner says he and Alexander have a close working relationship since both men represent Enfield. He believes Alexander will be able to recover from this situation.
“It’s not certainly a career killer, but that`s a decision for Alexander’s constituents to make,” said Rep. Kiner.
Alexander graduated from Enfield High School in 1999 and from Trinity College in Hartford in 2003 and received his law degree in 2006 from the University of Connecticut.
Alexander is a reservist in the U.S. Marine Corps.
He is scheduled to appear before a judge at Enfield Superior Court on March 9th.